Sports Analysis

In most sports, there are many different elements of the games that can be represented with discrete random
variables. A tree diagram is a way to show the outcomes of simple probability events, where each outcome is
represented as a branch on the tree.
First goal. Create a tree diagram for each of the following sporting scenarios:
Scenario 1. Free throws in basketball. Make a tree diagram representing all the possible outcomes of shooting
three free throws.
Scenario 2. Shots in a Hockey shoot-out. Make a tree diagram representing all the possible outcomes of
shooting three penalty shoots.
Second goal. Use the trees to produce one or two paragraphs explaining how trees may represent scenarios
containing random variables.
Third goal. Address the prompt: Why would a researcher want to use trees in their research? How could they
use trees to better understand the variables in their study?
Fourth goal. Trees may not always be suited to describe a variable. Create a brief scenario in which trees are
unable (or ill-equipped) to describe a variable. Remember to justify your conclusions.
Share your trees, goals, thoughts, and findings using a discussion post.